VW Gives ID.4 Major Power and Range Updates

The crew at Volkswagen have slung a few improvements at their all-electric ID.4, including a significant power boost and a jump in range. And, oh yeah, they seem to be listening to some of the carping about its infotainment system.

First, the power. Both the single and dual motor (rear- and all-wheel drive) variants benefit from the addition, though only if they are equipped with the 82.0-kWh battery and not the base unit. Assuming the larger pack is on board, rear-drive ID.4 hatchbacks now make 282 horsepower, up from a paltry 201 horses, while all-wheel drive variants are good for 330 hp, an increase of 35 ponies. The all-wheel drive model accelerated to 60 mph from rest in about 5.5 seconds with the old output level, suggesting the ’24 will be even more fleet of foot.

Less specific are increases to official range specs. VW says the newfound grunt is “anticipated to deliver enhanced range” though EPA-estimated ranges won’t be available until closer to the car’s market introduction early next year. This statement runs counter to the generally accepted gearhead equation in which extra grunt causes an increase in energy consumption, not a reduction. Perhaps not everyone has lead feet.

Heeding a portion of criticisms leveled at the ID.4 infotainment system, VW is installing a 12.9-inch touchscreen display in long-range variants, a change that’s accompanied by – are you ready for it? – backlit sliders. This is good news for anyone who has ever fumbled with the old system’s controls in the dark, an action which reliably provoked solemn oaths and epithets directed at German engineers. This new screen also benefits from a rethought climate control interface and other menus.

Pricing for the 2024 ID.4 will apparently be released closer to its on-sale date after we’ve all rung in the New Year. VW claims 2023 ID.4 models are eligible for full potential federal EV tax credits and brags that while they are technically a foreign automaker, local assembly and sourcing permits their EV to be eligible for the credit.

[Image: Volkswagen]

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